Blue But Better Part Two
BRIAN WETZEL Photographer
KRISTI HUNTER Stylist
After living with and loving the spaces that we created in 2022, our client at our Blue But Better Project was ready to bring the rest of her home into alignment with the calming and cohesive ambiance we had created.
Nestled back into a wooden lot in Warren, NJ this suburban home serves as a great example of how decorating, color, and finishes can absolutely transform a builder-grade home into a personal sanctuary space. We stuck with the original design intent - to create a serene sanctuary anchored in blue (our client’s favorite color) that feels eclectic and completely fresh. Be sure to check out Part One of our Blue But Better Project if you haven’t already!
the formal living room - elegant and livable
The Original Living Room Space
Formal living rooms are not our usual fare, but this project challenged us to design a space that was both elegant and practical. By increasing the saturation of the existing blue tones on the walls and utilizing the existing wainscoting for a two-tone look, we achieved a harmonious balance.
We gave new life to the client's lounge chairs with stunning floral tapestry fabric, adjusted their sizing and stuffing, and removed the skirts to reveal their structured black legs. This sustainably-focused approach kept these charming chairs out of the recycle market.
A soft rug in blue and cream tones grounds the room, while an aubergine-hued sofa offers cozy additional seating. The modern lines of a white oak coffee table complete the look. To create visual height in the space, we added an open and airy bookshelf along the wall, adding both function and interest. Finally, new window treatments and a custom window bench seat cushion connects the colors and textures throughout the space while highlighting the architectural interest of the bay window.
the foyer - breaking up the oak
The Original Foyer Space
Adjacent to the formal living room, the large oak stairway in the foyer was another area in need of attention. We painted the spindles black to break up the sea of oak, carrying the fresh white walls from the common areas into the foyer. Cheerful art and a patterned rug punctuate the space, and a round entry table with a custom piece of graphic stone improves the room's flow.
The primary bedroom - a peaceful retreat
Our client’s primary bedroom had been a source of frustration for years, with a bed that was too high and layers of draperies that shortened the windows and blocked natural light. We transformed this space into a serene retreat with a peaceful blue wall color as a backdrop.
We reupholstered another set of existing chairs with new abstract floral fabric and added a custom bed with a modern wavy headboard in the softest textural fabric. Generous nightstands provide ample storage, while oversized bedside lights add a playful and unexpected touch. A sculptural chandelier serves as a striking focal point and offers juxtaposition with some of the more traditional elements of the space.
The Original Primary Bedroom Space
the primary bedroom sitting room - cozy and contrasted
Off the primary bedroom, the sitting room provided an opportunity to play with contrast and shape. Dark navy walls serve as a dramatic backdrop for the angular plaster bookshelf and a lounge with curving lines is echoed in the nesting coffee tables. The client’s favorite glider was reupholstered with fresh fabric, creating a perfect cozy reading nook. A burl dresser adds warmth and extra storage and the wavy mirror helps pull together the design elements from the primary bedroom.
The Original Primary Bedroom Sitting Room
Now, two years after the initial installation, this home is cohesive and flows beautifully between both phases of our design. From the formal living room to the primary bedroom, each space has been thoughtfully updated to reflect our client’s preferences while creating a unified and inviting atmosphere.
This project exemplifies how thoughtful design can transform a home, making it both aesthetically pleasing and functional. By reimagining existing furniture pieces, playing with color contrasts, and creating moments of unexpected beauty, we've created a home that our client will enjoy for years to come.
If you’re ready to create a home that reflects the life that you want to live, we’d love to hear from you. Vestige Home is proud to offer full-service interior design in Philadelphia and beyond. We encourage you to reach out through our Inquiry page and our team will be in touch to set up an easy discovery call to learn more about you, your home, and how we can design solutions to create your dream home.
Cheers friends,
Nicole and the Vestige Home Team
Vestige Home Designers -
Nicole Cole, Project Lead
Zach Martin, Laura Kelly